This slice of south-east Qld is outpacing Brisbane for population growth – and with far more affordable homes 

Given the area’s median house price, coupled with waterside living, it’s easy to see why Aussies are swarming. 

Driven by rapid population growth and major infrastructure funding, Moreton Bay North is on the cusp of one of its largest housing expansions yet. 

Over the next few years, more than 10,000 new homes will be unlocked in the northern district of Moreton Bay through state‑funded infrastructure projects, alongside masterplanned communities now taking shape. 

According to the PropTrack Stockland Regional Snapshot: Moreton Bay North, the population of this south-east Queensland region has grown by 56,411 people in the past decade, a 24% surge outpacing Greater Brisbane, with another 8160 newcomers in the year to June 2024 alone. 

The report also found the median house price reached $825,000 in June 2024, climbing 8% in the past year and 95% over five years.  

Even with this rapid growth, compared to Brisbane, an hour to the south, and the Sunshine Coast to the north, Moreton Bay North’s average property cost represents significant savings. 

Per PropTrack data, Brisbane’s median house price rose again in July 2025 to $1.067 million, up from $1.015 million in June. And in Caloundra, for example, in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, the median house price sits at $971,250. 

“Moreton Bay North is experiencing strong population growth driven by affordability, lifestyle appeal, and improved infrastructure,” Stockland project director Rob Winters told realestate.com.au.  

“This is creating demand for a mix of housing options, from townhouses to family homes to over 50s land lease communities, that cater to a broad range of buyers, including first home buyers, upgraders and downsizers.” 

Big investments to unlock housing supply 

The region’s rapid growth has prompted significant government investment to boost housing supply.  

In August 2025, the state government announced $45.8 million in round one of its Residential Activation Fund for the City of Moreton Bay, targeting four critical infrastructure projects expected to unlock 10,300 new homes. 

A large share of this will be in the Waraba Priority Development Area, which will eventually deliver up to 30,000 homes for approximately 70,000 people.  

City of Moreton Bay mayor Peter Flannery said the region’s population was expanding by 240 people per week and urgently needed new housing. 

“Funding from the Residential Activation Fund will help accelerate the delivery of homes at Waraba, our city’s biggest growth area,” he said. 

The lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games is expected to bring another wave of infrastructure spending, improving transport links between Moreton Bay North, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast and boosting the region’s profile. 

“The Olympics will bring major infrastructure investment and increased visibility to south-east Queensland,” Mr Winters said.  

“This presents a unique opportunity to accelerate housing delivery, attract new residents and create vibrant, well‑connected communities that support long term growth.” 

Meeting diverse housing needs 

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show Moreton Bay North has a strong family profile, with 72% of households being family households and 25% lone-person households. 

The PropTrack Stockland Regional Snapshot: Moreton Bay North report found 51% of buyer enquiries in the region were for four-bedroom homes and 13% for properties with five or more bedrooms.  

Developer Stockland is working to meet this demand through its Rivermont and Kinma Valley masterplanned communities.  

Rivermont in Caboolture will deliver over 2000 homes and 47 hectares of open space. Kinma Valley in Morayfield is expected to have 2500 homes, 30% green space, and a major community hub with local amenities. 

“Both communities offer a variety of lot sizes, home designs and price points, with a strong focus on nature, walkability and connectivity,” Mr Winters said.  

“We are designing these communities to offer a broad range of diverse housing including Halcyon to support different life stages and household types.” 

Lifestyle is also central to Stockland’s design approach. 

“We’re focusing on green spaces, walking and cycling paths, sporting parks, active transport links, community hubs, and access to schools and shops,” Mr Winters said.  

“These features help foster a strong sense of community connection and support healthy, active lifestyles.” 

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